Top Coach 32: Derek Johnson, Chicago Cubs

With hires like this one, it can’t be long until the Chicago Cubs are playing in October. Okay, some wishful HOPING on this Cub fan’s part, but there’s no doubt that the Cubs’ front office has their mind right when they brought Derek Johnson aboard as the director of minor league pitching for the organization. The former Vanderbilt assistant under Tim Corbin has a sparkling resume and the respect of those all through the coaching profession. Although he’s said that there are similarities in the roles, the sheer numbers dictate a different kind of work environment. While Johnson directed the development f 13-15 pitchers for the Commodores, he’s got 100+ young men of various ages, experience, cultures, and languages to guide from Mesa to Knoxville to Des Moines. He’s got a tall task, but sounds up to it.